#skye bjorgman

‘You’ve just won a first prize award for the photography contest. Can you tell us more about the contest itself and about your work?’

‘The theme was city architecture. At first, I wasn’t sure what I want to capture exactly. I have taken many shots, and eventually decided to go with the photo of the San Myshuno bridge.’

‘Why did you chose that bridge?’

‘Well, first of all, San Myshuno is one of my favorite cities in Sim Nation. I just love the architecture and the cultural diversity. And I have plenty of good memories from there. As for the bridge, I just think that bridges are a symbol of connection. Between worlds, between people, between everything in this life. As well as a symbol of great architectural progress. I mean, it’s not exactly easy to build a bridge.’

‘Yes, you’re right. So would you say that architecture is your favorite theme?’

‘No. I have taken part in a few contests so far and I believe that there are many more to come. The architecture was just a theme. I’ve also submitted my work for the sea life contest. And I’ve done portraits as my private project. At the moment, I can’t choose my favorite theme. There are still so many to try.’

‘So you’re keen on exploring.’

‘Always.’

‘What inspired you to become a photographer in the first place?’

‘I’ve always had a great appreciation for art. My eldest cousin is a painter. She was one of the very first people that I have photographed. My first portrait. I guess I learned that appreciation from her. But painting is not for me. I want to do something more modern. I love working with my camera and then editing the photos. Painting is too old-school. But luckily, my wonderful parents gave me a camera for my birthday, and I’ve been using it for years now.’

‘Is your family supportive of your work?’

‘For now, it’s more of a hobby rather than actual work. Although, I’ve done some commissions. But yes, they are very supportive. My relatives were my first models and my first clients. They constantly encourage me to continue working on my skills. Even today, my sister, Skye is here, cheering me on from backstage. Of course, my mom would prefer me to go to a university but she understands that I have a different plan in mind.’

‘What plan is that?’

‘After I graduate high school, I want to move to San Myshuno and open a photography studio there. Hopefully, I’ll find my favorite theme by then.’

‘How do you manage to take such great photos?’

‘Well, I never give up. I take dozens of shots until I am satisfied with the result. I try to follow the rule of thirds to get a really nicely divided photo. And to focus on the key elements in there. I can’t really explain the process. Symmetry is one thing. But luck is another. And I tend to get pretty lucky with those contests.’

‘Have you signed up for another contest yet?’

‘Yes. There are many of them. The next one that I’m going to work on is simply water-themed. It gives lots of options and I have many ideas already.’

‘Lastly, what advice would you give to aspiring photographers like yourself?’

‘Never give up. Keep on working, even if you feel like your shots are not as good as you would like them to be. Think outside of the box, and try not to repeat the pattern. Photography is a piece of art and nobody likes repetitive art. If you want to make it big, create your own, unique style.’

‘Awesome. Good luck with that contest, Darya. It was so nice having you here. I hope we’ll see each other again some time.’